Federal Judge Delays Kwame Kilpatrick’s Sentencing

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) – Sentencing has been delayed for ex-Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick on his public corruption conviction.

Federal Judge Nancy Edmunds at a Thursday hearing moved Kilpatrick’s sentencing from Sept. 3 to Oct. 10. Kilpatrick’s lawyer had sought a deadline extension to file objections to a presentence report.

Objections now are due Sept. 9.

Sentencing for Kilpatrick’s close friend, city contractor Bobby Ferguson, was also pushed back.

Ferguson’s new sentencing date also is Oct. 10.

Both men are being held without bond at the federal prison in Milan.

WWJ Legal Analyst Charlie Langton says there was really no reason to delay the sentencing, however: “Nobody was harmed by this.”

“We know that this is a very serious case; we know that it’s likely the judge is going to issue a very lengthy sentence,” Langton added. “Giving it a couple of weeks is not going to make a bit of difference.”

Kilpatrick and Ferguson were convicted in March of a sweeping scheme to enrich themselves through fixed contracts, bribes and kickbacks. Bernard Kilpatrick was convicted of a tax crime.

The U.S. Court of Appeals also this week upheld Edmunds’ decision to deny bond and keep Kilpatrick incarcerated prior to sentencing.

Sentencing for the ex-mayor’s father, Bernard Kilpatrick, was also pushed back. He is free on bond and will be back in court on Oct. 17.